Ciao! We’re In Africa

Who’s Your Idea of a Pioneer?

Innovator, Inventor, Forerunner: these are ‘pioneer’ synonyms which I’d associate with both my parents and the themes in my books. My father attracted people to him—the honey to buzzing bees—despite his modest 5.5 height. During his WW2 years in the POW camp, he had his dark moments, but he also pushed boundaries. When he was discharged, he had become the official translator for management having learnt two languages and, he was also equipped with skills in running the POW camp supply store and stock taking. And my mother? Well, despite not speaking a word of English and not having previously owned a passport, she determinedly accompanied the man of her dreams as they set out from Italy bound for Southern Africa in 1955. Was she scared? She was terrified! Did she enjoy every moment of the next five years whilst creating a successful fashion business and starting a family? No … but during all challenging situations whether you are an innovator, inventor or forerunner, there is that sense of purpose and an overwhelming sense of achievement in each victory. Don’t sit back; create and take control of your future!